Letters to the editor, 11/18

Underground power lines make sense

In Europe, most high-voltage power lines have long ago been moved underground, so they don't need to have this discussion. Underground power lines are more efficient, less costly, and more protective of the environment. But our for-profit power companies figure they'll make more money by forcing customers to accept obsolete technologies that will have to be replaced and updated in a few years - with the cost, of course, passed on to us. No wonder Fortis was so eager to buy the Central Hudson Gas and Electric cash cow.

Republican politics, ever hand-in-hand with moneyed interests, are involved here. The "Fright wing" has managed to convince the gullible that everything European, including a smart 21st-century solution to power delivery, is filthy, evil socialism. It's time we stopped listening to these scare tactics and stand up for common sense. New York state should say no to more inefficient above-ground power lines.

Bettyann Lopate

Beacon

Mark school related professionals day

Tuesday is School Related Professional (SRP) Recognition Day in New York state. In 2007, the state legislature designated the third Tuesday in November as the day to recognize the hard work and dedication of our school related professionals.

Who are SRPs? We are the teaching assistants that support your children directly in the classroom. We are the monitors that provide lunch assistance and hallway monitoring. We are the bus drivers that safely transport your students to and from school. We are the nurses who provide health services to your students. We are the custodians and maintenance workers that keep the schools and grounds clean. We are the cafeteria staff that provides nutrition to your students. We are the occupational therapists and physical therapists that assist students with their development. We are the office staff that keeps the schools running. We are the security personnel that keep our schools safe.

SRPs make a difference in your students' lives. Please take the opportunity to thank and honor these partners in education on Tuesday.

Rebecca O'Mara

president, Wappingers Teaching Assistant Association

Hopewell Junction

Proud to serve district 22

Thank you to the voters and residents of Dutchess County legislative district 22 - Beekman and Unionvale - for their vote of confidence in me on Nov. 5. I spent a lot of time during the campaign, going door to door, speaking with residents about issues that were important to them. Many were quite outspoken on a number of those issues, but everyone was gracious and informative. I am proud to be representing the people of district 22. Thank you for your continuing support.

Gerry Hutchings

Dutchess County Legislator

Beekman

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Letters to the editor, 11/18

In Europe, most high-voltage power lines have long ago been moved underground, so they don't need to have this discussion. Underground power lines are more efficient, less costly, and more protective